About Public Arts
About the Aurora Public Art Commission
The Aurora Public Art Commission is a civic organization dedicated to the presentation of public art in all its forms. APAC provides a formal art presence for the residents of the City of Aurora.
General functions include selecting sites for sculpture and other art forms, selecting artists, overseeing projects, developing programs in art education and establishing an exhibit schedule for the Aurora Public Art Commission Gallery. In addition, the Public Art Commission supports a variety of initiatives promoting public awareness of the positive value of diversity in Aurora.
The Aurora Public Art Commission was established in 1985 by the City of Aurora for the purpose of developing a cohesive public art program. The Commission consists of nine members, each appointed by the mayor. Members serve on a volunteer basis.
APAC encourages community participation in the Public Art program. Public involvement is essential in establishing an atmosphere in which the arts can flourish in Aurora. A successful arts program helps to build a positive sense of community identity, contributes to economic growth, and enriches the lives of individuals. The Aurora Public Art Commission celebrates Aurora’s diverse community by showcasing the full spectrum of artistic styles and traditions.
Aurora Public Art Commission is a member of the American Association of Museums, the Illinois Association of Museums, the Illinois Arts Alliance, the Chicago Artist’s Coalition, and Americans For the Arts.
Suggested Donations
Always free and open to the public; $5 suggested donation.
Getting There
The gallery is walkable from the Aurora station on the Metra BNSF line.
90-minute parking is free on Downer, Stolp, and the surrounding streets. The public garage across the street from the gallery charges a maximum of $5 per day. Free 3 hour and 6-hour parking is available in nearby city lots.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to present public art in all its forms and provide a formal art presence for the residents of the City of Aurora. We also hope to enhance Aurora’s image throughout the region in terms of the visual arts.
Vision
In Aurora where citizens view the arts as a defining feature of their community’s identity.